Chief Of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja Passes Away At 56
The Presidency has announced the death of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff, who passed away at the age of 56 on Tuesday night in Lagos following a brief illness.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing the senior officer’s death as a significant blow to the nation. In a statement issued by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu said, “Lt. General Lagbaja’s passing is deeply felt across the nation. He was a courageous and dedicated officer whose contributions to Nigeria’s security and stability were invaluable. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and all members of our armed forces.”
Appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu, Lt. Gen. Lagbaja’s career in the Nigerian Army spanned over three decades. Born on February 28, 1968, he began his military journey at the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987 and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Infantry Corps in 1992. He rose through the ranks, gaining a reputation for disciplined leadership and effective command.
Lt. Gen. Lagbaja played pivotal roles in various security operations, including “Operation ZAKI” in Benue State, “Lafiya Dole” in Borno, “Udoka” in the Southeast, and “Operation Forest Sanity” in Kaduna and Niger States. He notably led the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion in key internal security missions.
The late general was an alumnus of the U.S. Army War College, holding a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, reflecting his dedication to professional growth and strategic military leadership.
He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children. President Tinubu offered condolences to his family, saying, “We will forever remember and honour his sacrifices. May he rest in peace.”
